Summer brings longer days and more opportunities for outdoor fun with our furry friends. However, it also brings challenges, like keeping your dog’s paws safe from scorching pavements. Here are practical tips and some DIY ideas to ensure your dog's paws remain protected throughout the season.

1. Recognize the Signs of Burned Paws

Dogs can suffer from burnt paws on hot surfaces, showing signs such as:

• Limping or avoidance of walking
• Excessive licking or biting at the feet
• Darker or damaged pads
• Blisters, redness, or swelling

If you notice these signs, provide immediate care and consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatment.

2. Test the Ground Temperature

Always check the ground temperature before your walk by placing the back of your hand or a bare foot on the surface. If it’s too hot for you after 10 seconds, it's too hot for your dog.

3. Choose Cooler Times for Walks

Avoid midday heat by walking your dog in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler and the sun is less intense.

4. Provide Protective Footwear

Dog booties can protect against hot surfaces. Here's how to DIY:

• Materials: Lightweight fabric, Velcro straps, and non-slip material for soles.
• Method: Measure your dog’s paws for size. Cut the fabric and non-slip material according to these measurements, sew them together, and add Velcro straps for easy wearing.

5. Keep Walks Short

Limit your dog's exposure to hot surfaces with shorter, more frequent walks, preferably on grassy or shaded paths.

6. Moisturize Your Dog’s Paws

Paw pads can dry and crack, so keep them moisturized with a DIY balm:

• Ingredients: Coconut oil, shea butter, and bees wax.
• Preparation: Melt equal parts of each ingredient in a saucepan or microwave, mix well, and pour into a container to set.

7. Watch Out for Poolside Hazards

Ensure your poolside area is safe for your dog, and always wash off pool chemicals from your dog’s paws to prevent irritation.

8. Rinse Paws After Walks

Rinse your dog’s paws with cool water after walks to remove irritants like pesticides or salts, which can dry out or damage paw pads.

9. Regular Paw Checks

Incorporate daily paw checks into your routine, looking for debris, cuts, or anything unusual between their toes.

10. DIY Cooling Mat

After a long summer walk, your dog will appreciate a cooling mat:

• Materials: Cotton fabric, water-absorbing crystals (used in gardening).
• Assembly: Sew two pieces of fabric together like a pillowcase, leave one side open to add the crystals, then stitch it shut. Soak the mat in water, and the crystals will absorb and retain coolness.

Conclusion

Taking the time to protect your dog’s paws from the summer heat isn’t just about comfort; it’s about health. These simple, practical tips and DIY projects can make a big difference in how your dog experiences the warm season. With a little preparation, you can ensure that summer remains a joyous and safe time for your pet. Enjoy the sunny days ahead with confidence and fun!